Microbiologically influenced corrosion (MIC) shares a substantial debt in CAPEX and OPEX across many industries accounting for more than 20% expenditure associated with corrosion worldwide. This review encompasses recent development in understanding the mechanism of MIC, focusing on the role of microbial biofilm and synergistic interaction of numerous microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi and archaea in deteriorating metallic structures in various applications. We have further covered conventional and recent advancement in the field of biocide focusing on biocide enhancers like peptides that improve the biocidal effect of conventional biocides. Advanced assessment techniques like Scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM) and Next Generation Sequencing are explored for their role in clarifying the complexities within MIC. Despite some major breakthrough in understanding MIC, challenges still remain accurately diagnosing MIC and mitigating through eco-friendly biocidal options tailored for specific applications. Moreover, as the operating conditions vary and microbial consortiums get resistant to conventional biocides, there is a need for multi-omics strategies, artificial intelligence based driven models and advanced biocidal design which are biodegradable and yet effective in combating MIC in different industrial applications. • Microbiologically induced corrosion (MIC) causes material degradation, reducing efficiency and reliability across systems. • Complex biofilm formation and extracellular polymeric substances drive initiation and acceleration of MIC. • Discussion and distinction between biofouling and MIC. • Role of distinct microbial species in MIC apart from SRB. • Biocide enhancers as the breakthrough strategy in improving corrosion inhibition.
Fayyaz et al. (Fri,) studied this question.